Household Level Food Security Contribution of Homestead Production Systems in Sundarbans Region of West Bengal

The majority of households in the coastal salt-affected areas of Sundarbans have some kind of homestead production system (HPS) adjacent to their dwelling houses. This study carried out in the Sundarbans region of West Bengal has examined the current production level of HPS and its future opportunities, particulalry for the smallholders. Homestead ponds (average area 0.04 ha) and homestead gardens (vegetables and fruits; average area 120–240 m²) were the major components of the system. On average around 70–75 per cent of the total vegetables produced (340 kg/household/year) in the HPS were consumed by the households. Around 30–35 per cent of the fish produced (143 kg/household/year) in the HPS was consumed by the family and the rest was being marketed. The livestock production was minimal and was mostly (80–85%) consumed by the households. The study has observed the possibility to increase overall productivity (vegetables, fish and livestock) of HPS through scientific interventions and in turn could increse farmers income and food and nutritional security in the region. These resource-poor farmers need techinacal as well as financial support and the government may consider implementing schemes for promotion of homestead production in the coastal areas.